Control of Fusarium Stalk Rot of Corn by Addition of Biochars

Abstract

The efficacy of biochar prepared from rice husk and bamboo at 500°C against stalk rot of corn caused by Fusarium graminearum was tested at biochar doses of 0, 0.5, 1, 2 and 3% (w/w). In general, the application of biochar controlled the disease. Compared with the 0% control, biochar addition at the low concentration of 0.5% enhanced corn growth. In addition, biochar addition at various concentrations decreased the disease severity. The disease control potential varied based on the biochar type and dose. The most effective dose for controlling the disease was 2% for rice husk biochar and 1% for bamboo biochar. A terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis revealed changes in the soil microbial community after biochar addition. In conclusion, our results provide a basis for applying rice husk and bamboo biochar as a soil amendment for the suppression of corn stalk rot caused by F. graminearum.